Genki Sushi Restaurants a Possible Source of Hepatitis A Outbreak

Genki Sushi restaurants are a possible source of the hepatitis A outbreak in Hawaii that has sickened over 160 people. Restaurants on Oahu and Kauai have been temporarily closed on order from the State of Hawaii Department of Health (HDOH).

After months of investigation, HDOH has determined that source of the hepatitis A outbreak in Hawaii is most likely imported, frozen scallops served at the restaurant. In a press release, HDOH stated:

“Based on evidence gathered and analyzed during an extensive investigation spanning almost two months, the Hawaii State Department of Health has determined a strong association between a majority of the cases in the Hepatitis A outbreak first announced by the department on July 1, 2016. Investigation findings implicate frozen imported scallops served raw at Genki Sushi Restaurants as the likely source of Hepatitis A infection.”

“The restaurants have been closed tonight [Monday, July 15] to prevent any further interest and to protect the public.”

HDOH also put an embargo on the frozen scallops, which were distributed by Koha Oriental Foods and True World Foods in Hawaii. The embargo restricts their use, sale or distribution.

Onset of illness ranges from June 12 to August 1, 2016. Most of the people sickened live on Oahu, where Genki Sushi has several restaurants. There is one on Kauai. There are also people sickened who live on the islands of Hawaii, Kauai, and Maui, and one visitor who fell ill is from the mainland.

At least one employee from the following food service business(es) has been diagnosed with hepatitis A during this outbreak. Acccording to HDOH, “This list does not indicate these businesses are sources of this outbreak; at this time, no infections have been linked to exposure to these businesses. The likelihood that patrons of these businesses will become infected is very low. However, persons who have consumed food or drink products from these businesses during the identified dates of service should contact their healthcare provider for advice and possible preventive care.”